It was like something out of a postcard — a pair of newlyweds at the top of a hill with seemingly-endless mountains behind them, leaning against a stunning Rolls Royce while the bride’s veil blows in the breeze and two new wedding bands clink together as he holds her hand.

But this Frederick County wedding was real and beautiful and surrounded by a thousand other picture-perfect moments — the way Becky’s dad reacted to seeing his daughter in her wedding dress; the sweet moments in a family’s beloved church; the tears of happiness during dances with their parents; laughter from bridesmaids saying cheers with champagne flutes; the snap of a polaroid taken by the groomsmen during the getting ready time.

With backdrops of the historical St. John Evangelical Roman Catholic Church in downtown Frederick and the picturesque Maryland National Golf Club in Middletown and surrounded by adoring family and friends, Becky and Mike celebrated their love story in June.

Becky was absolutely gorgeous in her wedding gown and with flawless makeup by Poetically Brushed Hair and Makeup. Her bridesmaids glowed in different styles of long, pale green dresses. They were such a tight group of friends, sisters and sisters-in-law and filled the air with laughter and excitement.

The mood around Mike and his groomsmen was lighthearted and fun, too. They were there to help Mike out with whatever he needed and were great sports during photo time, too!

There were so many special moments on this day. I loved the way the toasts and speeches included funny memories and poignant anecdotes about how wonderful these two were as kids and now as adults and how well-connected they are and how in love they’ll be forever.

From a photography standpoint, it doesn’t get much better than a hazy summer-like day overlooking mountain ridges with a gorgeous, so-in-love couple, a Rolls Royce and a fantastic second shooter like Photography by Virginia. Grateful to Virginia for being a fantastic wedding photographer partner and friend and for her creative eye.

We had not just one, but two opportunities to photograph Becky and Mike outdoors at Maryland National Golf Club. About halfway during the reception, with the incredible DJ Mele keeping the dance floor packed and fantastic music playing, Becky and Mike gifted us some time with a setting sun and a beautiful field just outside the reception hall. Those photos are some of my favorites of the day — the pressure and schedule worries of the event long gone, the golden glow all around and pure love and joy captured.

Congratulations, Becky & Mike!